Author: Jessica Grono

Did you know that Netflix has a show available called Crip Camp? The Obama’s directed the show. I’m not a fan of the Obama politics, but other than that, I think they do some good things. The R rating almost turned me off. I am not a fan of cursing, violence, sexualizing etc. Like most people, I turned to Facebook to see what others thought. They were pretty positive about it so I watched it. When I grew up, I hardly saw anyone in a wheelchair on television or movies. I immediately perked up with excitement when I saw a…

Mother’s Day, this year, looked a bit different than other years. No Mass, going out to breakfast, picnics etc. I never grasped what being a mom really meant until I found out I was pregnant with Laura. It was a February morning and it was the best feeling in the world. Not to mention terrifying. I went right into protection mode and knew my existence was for her, my decisions, my health, my relationships etc all revolves around her. Then, Jason came and the same emotions happened. Being a mom, to me, means to live for others and make decisions…

Personal recommendations can help someone get through the coronavirus. I’m not a medical professional. But I am a woman with cerebral palsy who lived through the coronavirus. Although each person has a different reaction to the virus, I find it helpful to know what someone has lived through. It is also helpful to know what has helped them. Please always check with your doctor if you have any questions or problems. The coronavirus test is a bit scary. I’ve had many medical tests and procedures so I thought I would be prepared for anything. Although it wasn’t the worst thing…

Coronavirus stinks! So, now that it looks like the worst is over, hopefully, I can answer a few questions people have asked about the coronavirus. I’ve been too weak to respond, so my apologies. I’m feeling a bit more energetic, but I expect I’ll nap shortly after posting this. Before I had the coronavirus, I expected it to be something completely different. I expected bronchitis and fever with hopes not pneumonia. It wasn’t anything like that. The symptoms were bizarre to say the least. Saturday was full of headaches, hot sweats, weakness, tiredness, throwing up and no matter what I…

Fun isn’t always associated with social distancing. Keeping occupied in these times of isolation is essential.  Kids are used to the busy school schedule so it’s a huge change.  As a mom with cerebral palsy, using the imagination to keep busy is challenging.  I absolutely love Pinterest plus ideas that come from others on social media. Please feel free to share any insights that you have. Jason has enjoyed LEGO challenges that have been going around Facebook.  He looks forward to them everyday.  I admit he has gotten quite good, and I recorded each build.  We also go on walks…

Everyone has a story about the Coronavirus. How we handle it is being observed constantly by our children. I’m normally a calm and cool person. I try my best but also have claustrophobia and anxiety to take care of my kids. Their mental health and losing quality education is my concern. Being hopeful and remembering the positives are hard but necessary.  I hope everyone can see some hope. Recently, I had an X-ray on my hips because pain had increased. Even though I’m  responsible for my hip damage from years of sitting in the W position, it’s hard for me…

Learning at home has started today at our house. Children are amazing and exhausting all at the same time. Life as we know it has changed completely.  Today was our first day home from school and work. The children were all mine. Thankfully, Jeff still can go to work.  Ironically, I finally obtained a job teaching only to have it very bluntly end.  It was good while it lasted, and I’m very hopeful to start again. Today I started homeschooling Jason.  For the most part, things worked out quite well.  We didn’t do everything that I had planned, but we…

Coronavirus has changed everything in a matter of days. We live in Eastern Pennsylvania exactly where most of the Coronavirus patients are in Pennsylvania. In a 5 day period, life went from normal to basic upheaval. I’m a relatively laid back person, but all these changes can drive anyone crazy.  Cerebral palsy on top of it all equals “buckle up and take it one day at a time.” The Coronavirus doesn’t scare me as much as it does others. I read a lot about it and, if for some reason we get it, I have faith we will be okay.…

Jason turned seven last month. I still remember when he was born – I actually remember when I found out I was pregnant. I didn’t think Jason would ever come to be because pregnancy just didn’t happen. But one day, in July 2012, my lower back ached and just felt off. When I saw 2 lines pop up on the pregnancy test – I felt goosebumps and complete joy. Right away, I went into “mommy mode” of eating right and protecting myself for him. Seven years later, I cannot believe how fast time flew by. Having him around…

Who doesn’t love St. Valentine’s Day? Well, alright not everyone does. Some even call it just a commercial holiday. Well, I think Valentine’s Day is fun and full of love! My husband claims he isn’t romantic, but he is very much so. This year I received a gift almost everyday during the week of Valentine’s Day. It was so sweet and unexpected from someone who claims they don’t believe in it. I got a necklace with one half of a heart and he wears the other, a box with a beautiful rose inside, a pillowcase declaring his feelings and a…